国内英语新闻:Hu's fruitful visit opens new chapter of China-U.S. cooperation: foreign minister

Yang said people-to-people exchanges were the important foundation and momentum for the development of ties between different countries, adding sound China-U.S. relations could not be guaranteed without the two peoples' mutual understanding and support.

During his trip, Hu emphasized the Chinese and U.S. peoples cherished great interests and friendly feelings toward each other, adding boosting people-to-people exchanges, especially youth-to-youth exchanges, was of key importance to the development of bilateral ties.

President Hu interacted widely with Americans from various circles.

He attended a welcome luncheon held by U.S. friendly organizations and delivered an important speech, which was warmly applauded by the audience.

He explained China's policies of further developing China-U.S. ties, and reiterated China would stick to the road of peaceful development.

Chinese President Hu Jintao visits Walter Payton College Preparatory High School in Chicago, the United States, Jan. 21, 2011.

Hu also paid a visit to Chicago, where he was warmly welcomed by the government and citizens. Mayor Richard Daley and his whole family greeted Hu at the airport.

Hu, accompanied by local officials, visited Walter Payton College Preparatory High School in downtown Chicago, and conducted face-to-face exchanges with U.S. youth.

The high school has established the only Confucius Institute in the United States that is housed in a K-12 environment and which primarily focuses on the Chinese language and cultural education programs.

During Hu's visit, both countries agreed to take concrete steps to enhance people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides announced the launch of a China-U.S. Governors Forum and decided to further support exchanges and cooperation at local levels in a variety of fields, including support for the expansion of the province and city relationships.

They also agreed to take concrete steps to strengthen dialogue and exchanges between their young people, particularly through the 100,000 Strong Initiative.

The two sides agreed to discuss ways of expanding cultural interaction, including exploring a China-U.S. cultural year event and other activities.

They also underscored their commitment to further promoting and facilitating increased tourism.